Lean Library

A library-approved tool to unlock access to academic papers.
What is Lean Library?
Lean Library is a free-to-use Chrome extension that acts as your personal library tool. It provides instant and legal access to a vast number of academic papers and facilitates access to your library's content whenever and wherever needed. It also offers direct support in the systems and webpages you use most for research, such as Google Scholar and PubMed. Lean Library can be utilized by those affiliated with an institution or by independent researchers, with redirection to open-access materials provided free.

Extension stats

Users: 200,000+
Version: 2024.25.0 (Last updated: 2024-10-07)
Creation date: 2020-07-01
Risk impact: High risk impact
Risk likelihood: Very low risk likelihood
Manifest version: 3
Permissions:
  • storage
  • tabs
  • alarms
  • activeTab
  • webNavigation
  • contextMenus
  • unlimitedStorage
  • webRequest
Host permissions:
  • http://*/*
  • https://*/*
  • <all_urls>
Size: 2.73M

Other platforms

Lean Library (v2024.25.0)
2.91 (56) 13,041+
Lean Library (v2024.26.1)
3.80 (6) 122,332+
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Extension summary

Put your library on your shoulder as you research

The Lean Library extension is a free tool which assists your library in delivering their services directly into your research workflow!

With the Lean Library extension, you can unlock access instantly and legally to millions of academic papers, streamline access to your library content whenever and wherever you might need it and get direct support within systems and web pages you use the most like Google Scholar, PubMed and thousand more!

Ready to start using Lean Library?

Install the extension, select your institution and begin researching! Even if you aren’t affiliated to an institution, you can still get quick and seamless redirection to open access materials absolutely free by downloading the extension and selecting Lean Library Open as your library.

Lean Library is a fantastic complement to other research tools you may already use including LibKey Nomad, EndNote Click and many more.

User reviews

These summaries are automatically generated weekly using AI based on recent user reviews. Chrome Web Store does not verify user reviews, so some user reviews may be inaccurate, spammy, or outdated.
Pros
  • Great tool for accessing academic resources easily.
  • Saves time and enhances research efficiency.
  • User-friendly interface and seamless integration with university libraries.
  • Provides access to licensed e-resources and Open Access versions.
  • Helpful pop-up messages for extra support and guidance.
Cons
  • Plugin can slow down browser performance and cause crashes.
  • Annoying need to re-disable integrations upon updates.
  • Occasional bugs affecting compatibility with other platforms like Qualtrics.
Most mentioned
  • User-friendly and convenient for accessing academic resources.
  • Integration with university libraries is a significant benefit.
  • Time-saving aspects enhance research productivity.
Recent reviews
Fantastic tool, super helpful for finding papers- I wish the university signposted this better!
by India Grant, 2024-10-29

Lean Library is a must-have tool for any student or researcher who frequently uses academic resources online. It saves time, increases access to materials, and ensures you're getting the most out of your library’s services

Lean Library has been an absolute game-changer for me! As a student, at the Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam (VU), accessing academic resources was never easier. Especially, if I compare it to my Bachelor's when I didn't have this extension. Lean Library has literally saved me countless hours of frustration by connecting me to scholarly articles, e-books, and journals that I needed for my essays, papers, and exam prep. I really appreciated the fact that the VU provides this service to its students!
by Daan, 2024-10-24
View all user reviews

Extension safety

Risk impact

Lean Library requires some sensitive permissions that could impact your browser and data security. Exercise caution before installing.

Risk likelihood

Lean Library has earned a good reputation and can be trusted.

Upgrade to see risk analysis details

Promo images

Lean Library small promo image
Small promo image

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